Inquest begins for suspect who died in back of squad

The prosecutor will considers whether to criminally charge any of the police officers involved in the man's death

By Gina Barton
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

MILWAUKEE, Wis. — In the five months since the public release of a video of Derek Williams struggling to breathe in the back of a Milwaukee police car, citizens have clamored to be heard.

Beginning Monday, six of them will get their chance in a Milwaukee County courtroom, serving as jurors at an inquest into Williams' death. Their advisory verdict will guide special prosecutor John Franke as he considers whether to criminally charge any of the police officers involved.